Best of Boston

2011 Best Antique Shop, North

Alexander Westerhoff Antiques

French Empire furnishings in rustic Essex? Believe it. A tastefully renovated church houses Westerhoff’s rare finds from the 17th to the 20th centuries (like a settee that reportedly belonged to Henry Clay Frick). There’s no bric-a-brac here, just exceptionally well-chosen fine furniture, priced accordingly.

18 Eastern Ave., Essex, 978-768-3830, westerhoffantiques.com